2016

we truly went all in on our lineup, and it paid off in spectacular fashion. With a clear vision and renewed confidence, we made a conscious decision to return to our folk and roots foundations, curating a line-up that felt both bold and unmistakably Moseley Folk. Headlined by the Levellers, The Proclaimers and Billy Bragg, the weekend became an iconic and unforgettable chapter in the festival’s history.

2016 also perfectly captured the breadth and ambition of our programming. As an independent festival, we always punch well above our weight, securing classic folk and roots acts while also championing contemporary voices from across the musical spectrum. Artists such as The Coral, Phosphorescent and Songhoy Blues sat comfortably alongside traditional performers, creating a rich tapestry of sound that spanned folk, roots, world music, Americana, indie and rock. We’ve always believed that a great festival should surprise as much as it satisfies. Our aim is not only to delight our loyal audience, but to introduce them to artists and genres and leave them discovering new favourites by the end of the weekend.

Of course, music is only part of the story. Our beautiful setting and welcoming atmosphere are central to the Moseley Folk experience. It has been said to us by many a well-travelled musician that our backstage is by far the most beautiful, welcoming and generously catered for of any other in the UK. Artists do genuinely love playing at Moseley just consider what other larger green field festivals or inner city venues are like for them. At Moseley, once they find their way down the windy path from Salisbury Road and find their bearings, they have a beautiful lake view to enjoy. Our backstage team, at the time Katie Beswick, Rachel Phillips, and more recently Claire Cotterill, provide a 5 Star level of hospitality. Fresh Bhaji from Milan on Stoney Lane always goes down well too! Artists often arrive early simply to soak it all in and enjoy the atmosphere before they head up the steps on Stage.

This year, the Main Bar moved to the newly developed Dell area, where it is to this day. Centre Court became the home of more artisan bar concessions, including the unique and sadly missed Puboard (Pub-Board – literally a Pub in a Cupboard), the world’s smallest festival pub concession, complete with darts board and comedy barman bought to you by Hayley and Ade.

2016 was the year we said goodbye to our good friend and long-time collaborator Paul Murphy. Paul had performed many times at our festivals, solo, with the Destroyers and had hosted many a secret session. He had dedicated his life to championing young musicians. Paul was a truly great man who will always be missed at Moseley.

The Kitchen Garden Stage was in full stride, led by Brett Rehling, who runs the Kings Heath venue of the same name and is largely responsible for keeping the Folk scene alive and kicking in Birmingham. Assisted by Andy Swann and Stuart Caley, they programmed a fantastic bill for many years at Moseley, always on a tight budget but always delivering a talent-packed line-up.

Andy Swann is also the man who runs the fearsomely efficient recycling team at Moseley, and also once crowned Asparagus King of Evesham. His team are up bright and early before we all arrive in the park to make sure its sloping meadows are clean and ready for your picnic blankets.

2016 is remembered as one of the very best years for Moseley Folk.